Mafia Born

Chapter Seven: Off to the Bank

**Teo's POV**

After the confrontation with Marco near Enzo's office, I had a weird feeling I couldn't shake. Like for example, why the hell was he even in the area when we were told to give the boss his privacy? I swear if I find out he's a rat, I'll kill him myself.

Getting back into the house after taking Veronica to the garden didn't take as long as I thought. The walk was quiet and a little awkward unfortunately. I might have been a little short with her after getting off the phone. I didn't want her to feel like that but anytime the Russians get involved, Enzo jumps to conclusions and doesn't listen to reasoning.

I arrive in his office to see Ricci, Tony, Luca, and Marco already there. Marco was holding a bag of peas to his face to stop the swelling from the hit I gave him earlier. I couldn't help but grin at my handy work.

"What's with the bag?" Tony asked Marco.

"Let my guard down while training a newbie earlier." Marco stated.

"Damn. They got you real good." Ricci said while laughing. Marco mumbled something under his breath but I couldn't exactly make out what he was saying. He was embarrassed to say the least.

"Ahem." Enzo clears this throat. The usual greeting. "The Russians want to have a sit down."

"A sit down? Why would they want a sit down?" Ricci asked.

"Because apparently they have information that could be useful for us and the only way they will share any of it is with a meeting." Enzo stated.

"Where do they want to have it?" I interjected.

"Here.." Enzo said.

"And what do they want in return for information?" Tony chimed in.

"They didn't say."

I rolled my eyes. Sneaky bastards. Of course they wouldn't say what they wanted. At least not over the phone.

"Don't think it's a good idea to have a sit down here. At least not right now, Enzo." I said.

"I didn't ask for your opinion, Teo. The sit down is happening. If they know who the new leader is or any other information that can help us, I'll take the risk. Luca, give the Russian's a call and have it set up for this weekend. Ricci and Tony, make sure all preparations are done on our end before then. You may leave. Marco and Teo, stay for a moment."

The men leave the room while Marco and myself stayed behind. Enzo made sure the door was shut before speaking again.

"While the Russian's are here, you both are in charge of keeping Ronnie away from them. I do not want her here during the sit down nor do I even want them knowing who she is. Unfortunately, I don't think I can keep her a secret much longer. I plan on having a celebration at the end of the month welcoming Ronnie into the business."

"How do you plan on doing that when she doesn't even know what we do?" I asked while crossing my arms.

"Well it gives me some time to figure out how I'm going to tell her."

"We could always tell her too, Boss. Make it easier on you." Marco said with a smirk.

"No. This has to come from me. Marco, go down to the warehouse and inform the others of the sit down. I want everyone to be ready."

Marco nodded and left the office.

"So, you going to tell me why you punched Marco in the face?" Enzo asked me once Marco left the room.

"Just a little disagreement. I'm sure he's learned his lesson by now." I personally wished he didn't. I wouldn't mind punching him a few more times.

"Good. I need you both to get along. Tomorrow I plan on taking Ronnie to the bank and a few other places around town. I want you to come with us."

"I don't want to interfere with family bonding."

"You won't be. I'm asking the men to stay here so Ronnie doesn't ask too many questions. I need you to be on guard."

"Damn. And here I thought you were actually welcoming me into the family." I laughed. However, Enzo didn't think my joke was that funny.

"You're my second in command, Teo. Don't push your luck. I'm going to call it a night. I'll see you in the morning."

Enzo and I left his office quietly. We were both by the stairs when we heard shouting coming from the lounge. I could hear the voices of Ricci, Luca, Tony, and Veronica. I couldn't make out what they were saying but it sounded like they were having a good time. I looked over to Enzo and saw him smiling.

"It's good to hear that laugh again. Sounds similar to what she sounded like when she was little but a bit more grown up now." Enzo let out a heavy sigh before retiring upstairs.

I decided to head to the lounge and see what all the fuss was about. I get into the doorway and see exactly what's going on. Luca was getting his ass handed to him in Call of Duty, Ricci was cheering Veronica on, and Tony was in the back as usual enjoying a drink. I leaned on the doorway and just watched. Veronica looked like she belonged there and she does. I never noticed how cute her laugh was until her father pointed it out. She's adorable in many ways but her laugh was the cutest. It wasn't loud or airy. It was soft and feminine even for a woman. Does it make me weird that I think it's attractive?

I'm snapped back to reality when Luca walks past me followed by Tony in the doorway. He doesn't take losing very well. I hear Veronica asking anyone else to play so I decided to chime in.

"I'll play."

"Oh, you play?" Confusion was written all over her face when she asked me.

"I do actually. I hope you're warmed up because I'm nothing like Luca." I smirked a little.

"Oh, you're worse?" Veronica let out one of her cute giggles.

"No ma'am. I'm better." I swear I heard her gulp. We both ignored the noise and got comfortable in front of the television.

I was going to stay on the floor but after the first round, I moved up to the couch sitting to the left of Veronica. She shifted slightly getting a little closer to Ricci who was still munching away.

Match after match and we were finally tied up. I think we had to do at least 9 rounds to find a winner and this was going to be the last match.

"This is the most fun I've ever had while watching someone else play video games. You both are good." Ricci said getting up off the couch and heading to bar to get something to drink.

"This is it, firecracker. Whoever wins this, wins it all."

"Let me know who wins tomorrow. I'm heading to bed. Night guys!" And with that said, Ricci left the lounge and closed the door behind him leaving Veronica and I alone.

"What do I get when I finally beat your ass?" Veronica asked.

"What do you want?" I said with sincerity in my voice.

"I get to ask you a question."

I pondered for a moment. "You can ask me one question and I'll answer it. But what do I get when I win?"

She huffed. "When huh? Well what do you want?"

"A goodnight kiss."

"W-what?" Veronica stuttered. I was just as surprised as she was. Before I could think of something, those words left my lips and I couldn't take it back.

"You know, just an innocent peck kinda kiss." I rubbed the back of my neck trying to cover my nerves. Didn't feel like it was working very much. The few seconds of silence wasn't reassuring. I watched her as she thought for a moment. I could see she was blushing but trying to cover it up with a slight cough and fixed her hair.

"Okay. One kiss. And that's IF you win which isn't gonna happen."

I shoved her a bit playfully and picked up the controller. "Dream on, princess." And then the game started.

Two minutes left and we were both tied. I was doing my best not to look at her screen to see where she was but she got quiet all of a sudden and I saw why. She was sneaking up behind me through the woods and was right about to shot when I turned and shot her first right in the head.

"There's no way you knew I was there! You cheated!" Veronica shouted in protest. I just laughed.

"Hey, I was using my surroundings to my advantage. Nothing wrong against that. Don't be a sore loser firecracker."

We both got up and cleaned the room up before retreating upstairs to our bedrooms. I walked Veronica to her door even though it's right across from mine.

"You owe me a kiss, il mio petardo?" She slowly turned around and I have her backed up on the bedroom door. Our bodies touching each other only to be separated by what little clothing we have on. The temptation to grab her by the neck bringing her lips smashing onto mine was strong and almost untamable. But I knew I couldn't lose control. Not with her.

"Alright. One kiss." She said barely louder than a whisper. I could see the hunger and lust in her eyes. I'm just happy she feels it too.

I slowly bring my face closer to hers watching her every moment. She returns the motion and closes the space between us finally connecting our lips. Her lips were soft, luscious, and incredibly sweet. I asked for access with my tongue and she allowed me to fully taste her. This innocent goodnight kiss was far from innocent. Before things got too heated, we both slowly separated.

Our breathing quicken as fast as the passion grew in that kiss. We both just stare at each other for a moment mesmerized by each-others' touch.

"Well, goodnight." Veronica said breaking the silence.

"Goodnight." I place a tender kiss on her cheek and head into my bedroom closing the door behind as I enter.

I'm so fucked....

*Veronica's POV**

He kissed me... well we technically kissed I mean and god it felt amazing. I feel like a giddy school girl that just got her crushes' attention for the first time. What is wrong with me? It's not like anything could ever happen between us, right? I'm probably barking up the wrong tree.

I could still feel his lips on mine as I laid down to sleep. I thought they would feel rough against my skin but it was the complete opposite. He was gentle and smooth. Something I think most men around here are not known for. At least the gentle part. He was a true gentleman all the way down to his lips and I wanted more. Before I finally drifted off to sleep, I swore to myself I would do everything in my power to keep my distance from Teo. It's been years since I opened my heart to anyone and I don't think dating one of my father's colleagues would be a great way to start again. It's for the best. For both of us.

**The Following Morning**

Sleep eluded me that night. Took me hours to finally drift off and when I did, the thought of Teo's lips haunted my dreams. I huffed and puffed a bit before sitting up in my comfy bed. I could see the sun was up and I decided to get ready for the day.

I knew I was going to the bank but didn't know when so I chose to dress somewhat appropriate for the occasion. I found a pair of my black leggings hanging and pulled a red blouse off a hanger to match. The blouse was loose but tight around my chest. Gave my breasts a chance to be shown off a little bit. Just a taste and nothing too degrading. I am my father's daughter after all. I shower, dry my hair, put on some makeup, and head downstairs to the kitchen. My stomach started to rumble the minute I got into the shower. I needed food or coffee. Whichever was available first, I'll take.

In the kitchen, Rose is busy cooking away on the stove and I can already smell the coffee. Bless this woman. She must be a saint.

I head over to the coffee pot and grab a mug that was nearby to pour myself a cup.

"Good Morning, Veronica. Sleep well?" Rose kept her attention on the stove.

"Wish I could have slept in a bit longer but I guess it doesn't hurt to start the day early."

"That's a great way to look at it, dear. Here I made some pancakes. Eat. I think I heard your father talking about taking you out into town soon." She smiled at me.

Rose set a plate of pancakes in front of me complete with butter and maple syrup.

"He's up already?" I looked at the clock and noticed it was only a little after 9 in the morning. It wasn't too early but definitely early for me on Monday. Monday's are usually my day off from the coffee shop so I sleep in till at least noon or later. The coffee shop...

I almost forgot the fact that I'm no longer a shop owner. I loved my little corner coffee store. It was perfect for the town I grew up in. Another place I probably won't see again any time soon. I won't miss the people but I'll definitely miss the sense of familiarity. I was comfortable with my daily routine. Yes, I will admit it was lonely but I was content. That should be enough, right?

"Oh, he's always an early riser. Now if you excuse me, I have other duties that need my attention. Enjoy your breakfast." She placed a loving kiss on my check and left the kitchen. I didn't even noticed she had already done the dishes by the time she served the pancakes. She's quick.

As I'm enjoying my breakfast, I wasn't left in the kitchen alone long. Teo arrived a bit after me and got himself some coffee. I chose to mind my own business and stay quiet. I guess trying to avoid him is going to be a bit harder than I thought.

"Morning, firecracker. Sleep alright after that tragic lost last night?" He looks at me as he casually sips some coffee.

I rolled my eyes and continue to ignore him.

"Well damn. I guess you're taking it harder than I thought. My apologies. I didn't know you were so sensitive." He chuckled.

"I'm not sensitive. I'm just tired."

"Oh please. You got at least 7 hours of sleep. Plus, you need to wake up. Your father has a long day planned for us." Teo said with a smirk as he took another sip of his coffee.

"Us? What do you mean us?" I asked praying I heard him incorrectly.

"Us. You, Enzo, and myself are all heading into town for the day. Enzo is a busy man so he's going to be unavailable most of the day so I'm your tour guide. Don't you feel lucky?" He winked. The amount of confidence that oozed off him would make anyone feel intimidated. However, I felt appalled. I allowed him to kiss me once and he acts all high and mighty around me all of a sudden.

I wanted to be angry but I wasn't. I wanted to be upset but I was the opposite. At first, the thought of being around Teo wasn't something I wanted to do. I told myself last night it would be best to avoid him and ignore him but I don't think it's going to be that easy. I was actually excited about having Teo take me around the town but I wasn't going to let him know that.

"Yay me..." My tone was completely sarcastic.

"Don't be like that, firecracker. I thought we were making progress." By this time, I had finished my pancakes and decided to clean up my mess. I was at the sink when Teo walked up behind me and cut the space between us once again. My back was now pressed against him with his arms pinning me to the counter preventing me from moving. He moves my hair away from my ear and brings his lips closer so only I can hear what he's about to say. "Don't act like you don't feel it too. I see the way you react when I'm around you. I see it in your eyes, Veronica." My face blushed and I knew my act wasn't working. So I forcefully wiggle myself out of his hold and turn to him before leaving the kitchen.

"I have no idea what you're talking about. I think it's best if we just forget about what happened last night and move on." I tried to sound rational but in all honesty, I knew I could never forget about that kiss. It still haunts my lips. I wanted him to kiss me again and again but it's too risky.

His eyes widen for a moment from shock. I even shocked myself with how I was speaking.

"Fine.." That's all he managed to say before our conversation was cut short with the appearance of my father. I thought he might have put up more of a fight but he didn't. I would be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed.

"Ah, good morning you two. Glad I got you both together. We will be leaving in ten minutes to had to the bank first. Ronnie, I will be with you at the bank but I have my own business to handle once we're there. After the bank, Teo, I want you to take Ronnie into town and show her around. If she's going to be living here, I want her to be comfortable and know where everything is. Give me a few minutes and I'll meet you by the car." Lorenzo quickly poured some coffee in his mug he was carrying and left the kitchen.

"This conversation isn't over, princess. There's much to discuss." He took another sip of his coffee and started to walk away.

"There's nothing to discuss!" I shouted after him as he disappeared out of the room. Jackass, I thought to myself.

The car ride to the bank was extremely awkward and quiet. Teo was driving, Lorenzo sat in the front, and I was in the back. The only sound in the car was the radio playing soft music on our ride into town. My father was busy scrolling through his phone and I was just staring out the window enjoying the view. There were a few times I could feel Teo looking at me through the rear view mirror but I paid him no mind.

It only took us about 15 minutes to get to the bank surprisingly. I thought it would take a little longer since Lorenzo's house is like at the top of hill or maybe Teo just drove fast and I was lost in my own mind. Whatever the case, we arrived at the bank in no time. I go to open my door to see Teo has beaten me to it. He holds the door for me and helps me out of the car. I say thanks and follow my father inside.

The architecture for building was majestic. The whole place was surrounded in columns and old Roman designs. It felt as if I stepped back in time. The inside was just as grand. Huge ceilings, expensive art plastered on every wall, and a fountain in the middle.

"Buongiorno Don Lorenzo. Come posso aiutarla?" I turn to look away from all the beauty to see a sharply dressed man with glasses talking to my father.

"Buongiorno. My daughter has business with this account." I see him hand the man a piece of paper. He nods in response. "I'm also here to see Elena if she's in yet."

"Sì. Un momento Don Lorenzo." The man signals another worker to head over to us.

"Ronnie, you're going to go with Thomas. He's going to help you with Emma's account. I have some business to handle and should be done around the same time as you. Let me know if you need anything." The first man with glasses leaves with my father and I'm left with who I assume is Thomas.

"Good morning, Miss Valentino. Can I get you some coffee or water before we start?" The man was young, probably around my age, short, had sandy colored hair, and brown eyes. He was cute but nobody compares to Teo. I definitely need to stop thinking about him.

"Oh you speak English? Thank goodness. Forgive me. I may be Italian but I have yet to learn the language."

He lets out a small laugh. "No worries, Miss. It's not an easy language to learn but once you get started it just clicks."

"That's definitely reassuring. And no thank you on the beverage. Just had some coffee not too long ago." He nods and asks me to follow him.

We walk a little bit down a hallway into one of the offices. Again, majestically decorated. It seems they kept the theme throughout the whole building and not just the entrance. I take a seat and Thomas sits behind his desk at the computer.

"Now, I don't have much information about this account, Miss. There is a note attached that I can print for you if you like."

"Yes please." A note? I wonder what's on it. I definitely need a copy of it.

"Perfect. Okay, next matter, what to do with the remaining funds in the account. We have several options we can do. We can keep it here in this bank and allow it to continue to grow interest which you can still access. We can also transfer the funds if that's something you might want to do. Or, we can donate it. The choice is yours, Miss Valentino."

"How much is in the account?"

"$10,596,782. Oh, one moment. That's actually $10,596,782.55 to be exact.

My mouth dropped. My mother had a bank account in Italy with over ten million dollars in it and never used it?! How? Why? Where did it come from? I had so many questions.

"Do you know where the money came from?"

I guess I made Thomas a little nervous cause he just shrugged and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Unfortunately I don't have that information. There's also a lock box attached to this account. Give me a few moments and I'll be right back with it." Thomas left the office and I was left with my thoughts and unanswered questions.

So what should I do with the money? I asked myself. That's a good amount of money and I could use it to help get established over here. I could get my own place and maybe even get my own corner coffee store again. Maybe this money was the new start I needed.

I was still thinking about all the possibilities when Thomas returned shortly with the lock box. It was all gold and as big as shoe box.

"Here are the keys, Miss Valentino. Oh, and in this envelope is a copy of the note that was attached to the account. Have you decided what you wanna do with the funds ma'am?"

"Yes actually. Out of curiosity, is there a way I can transfer funds from this bank account to the one in question?" I handed Thomas some documents that had all my information from the states. I didn't know what I was going to need when I was first told about my mother's will so I just decided to bring everything I thought was important.

Thomas went through the documents carefully to make sure he got all the information he needed.

"I can definitely do that for you, Miss Valentino. Just give me a few moments and I can transfer all your funds from your old bank to this one and get you set up with a new checking card."

"Thank you, Thomas." He smiled and continued to type into the computer.

It didn't take Thomas long at all. He handed me a new card with my name on it and I signed some forms before we were all done.

"Pleasure doing business with you, Miss Valentino. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your account, please don't hesitate to call us." He smiled again, shook my hand, and led me back to the main lobby.

Waiting in the lobby was Teo sitting in one of the chairs. He was busy on his phone so I assumed my father was still busy doing whatever he was doing.

"What's in the box?" Teo was looking at the lock box in my hands.

"I don't know. My mom left it for me along with this note. Figured I'll read it once we get home. Do you know if Lorenzo is done with his meeting?"

"Obviously not if I'm still sitting here."

"I didn't ask for a smartass answer, dickhead." I sat down next to him and put the box on my lap.

"Damn. Such a filthy mouth you have this early. I take it you're not a morning person?"

"No, I'm not. I owned my own coffee shop so I got to make my own hours. Most of the time I allowed myself a grace period of sleeping in." He laughed.

"Did you even make money if you opened in the afternoon?"

"I had employees asshole." He laughed again. I still didn't see what was so amusing. "What's so funny?"

"Nothing, firecracker. Nothing at all."

Teo went back to scrolling through his phone and I stared at the lock box with the note on top. I was so tempted to open everything up now but I wanted to be alone in my room so I could enjoy whatever was inside in peace.

"Teo, you can bring the car around. I'm all done with my meeting." Lorenzo was standing in front of us and didn't look very happy.

Teo nodded and left the bank. My father sat down next to me and then turned to talk. "Everything go okay with Thomas? He treat you right? Answered all your questions?"

"Yes, Lorenzo. Everything was great. I decided to keep the account open and use it as my main account. I figured since I'm going to be staying here for awhile might as well take advantage of this beautiful place and keep my mom's account open." He patted my thigh lovingly and smiled.

"Smart choice, Ronnie. You ready to head to our next destination?" He smiled with excitement. It was weird seeing him smile. He's presence is strong and powerful and not someone who would be known to smile.

"I'm ready!" I returned the smile and we both left the bank.